Trees on the Trail: the Mighty Oak

In 2004, Congress officially recognized the Mighty Oak as our national tree. While no specific species was designated, the entire Quercus genus was given this honor. The significance of oaks extends beyond their individual characteristics. As keystone species, oaks play a crucial role in supporting entire ecosystems. They provide essential sustenance and shelter for wildlife, contribute to soil enrichment, and boast sturdy wood that serves numerous purposes. Moreover, their majestic presence in the landscape has made them iconic symbols of natural beauty.

How do you know which oak is best for your yard?

The 2024 Arbor Day Tree Giveaway will feature two oak species, white oak (Quercus alba) and Nutall oak (Quercus texana). Let’s take a deeper dive into the similarities and differences between the two species and help decipher which oak is best for your landscape.

The white oak can soar to a height of 100 feet, with a robust trunk that measures over 3 feet in diameter. Flourishing on fertile slopes or drier uplands, it is instantly recognizable due to its distinct pale bark that give it tree its name. Its leaves, spanning from 6 to 9 inches in length, exhibit deep lobes and rounded contours. In contrast to its red oak counterparts, the white oak lacks bristle tips on its leaves. During the flowering season, the male catkins can reach lengths of 3 to 4 inches, emanating a delightful yellow-green hue. White oaks bears diminutive reddish female flowers, measuring a mere half an inch and small light brown acorns that require at least a single season to reach maturity. As the tree ages its bark undergoes a captivating transformation, evolving from a smooth surface to an invitingly shaggy texture, characterized by loose plates.

The Nuttall oak is also a substantial tree, reaching heights exceeding 75 feet, with a crown extending 30-60 feet and a trunk measuring two or more feet in diameter. This species thrives in forested wetlands and moist areas. Its leaves, measuring 4-6 inches in length, display bristle-tipped lobes. The Nuttall oak bears both male and female flowers, with male catkins reaching 5 inches in length. The acorns of this oak are slightly larger than those of the white oak, and a darker brown. The dark grey bark, which starts off smooth, eventually breaks into scaly plates on larger trunks.

Oaks are a popular species for our native pollinators. Native oak trees are a host to over 500 species of moths and butterflies in the US. This is more than any other native or non-native species, making the oak the Most Valuable Player in an urban landscape. Planting either Nuttall or white oak in your yard is sure to attract birds, butterflies, and wildlife.

The white oak is a popular and long-lived canopy tree – if you only have room for one large shade tree its an excellent choice. This is a slow-growing species; while you may not witness its full splendor in your lifetime, it will be a living legacy for the generations that follow. This tree needs to be planted in sunny areas and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions. The white oak provides ample shade once it matures, and its leaves change color as the temperature cools. Transplanting the white oak is difficult due to its deep taproot. However, this tree is incredibly stable and can stand tall in the landscape for over 200 years.

Nuttall oak is one of the most well-adapted oaks for general use in urban and suburban landscapes. This species grows fast and can tolerate wet and dry conditions. They need to be planted in an area with access to full sun, offering a spot to sit under for shade in the summer. The dark green glossy leaves turn a beautiful red color right before they start to drop in winter which brings a variety of color to your yard. The acorns are a benefit to wildlife, especially squirrels, but can become messy if not maintained.

Whether it’s the majestic white oak, with its slow growth and long lifespan, or the versatile Nuttall oak, known for its rapid growth and adaptability, both choices offer abundant benefits to your yard! By planting a native oak, you will not only support a diverse array of local caterpillars that transform into beautiful butterflies and moths but also contribute to the vital role of these pollinators. Moreover, the oak’s presence will attract a variety of bird and wildlife species, creating a thriving backyard habitat. There’s no wrong decision when it comes to adding an oak tree to your landscape; its important to consider the specific characteristics and requirements each tree has to ensure its success in your yard. Whether in your yard or on the trail, appreciate the beauty and benefits of these magnificent oaks!

Don’t forget to join the Environmental Services Department for the 48th annual Arbor Day Tree Giveaway on January 27th, 2024, from 9am – noon at Rob Fleming Park.

For beauty, bees, and butterflies, the Anacacho Orchid Tree is a showstopper

NATIVE PLANT FOCUS | Anacacho Orchid Tree | Bauhinia congesta

While appearing fragile, the anacacho orchid tree is a tough Texas native that offers a profusion of benefits for the home landscape.  This member of the pea family blooms in spring, unfurling five-inch-wide clusters of white to pink flowers. Heavy summer rains can bring on a repeat performance of these showy, fragrant, orchid-like flowers, creating a frilly appearance in the landscape. 

In The Woodlands (Plant Hardiness Zone 9a), the orchid tree is semi-evergreen The light green butterfly-shaped leaves contrast with the silvery bark and attractive limbs to create an outstanding understory tree or shrub. After getting established over the first year, the orchid tree grows rapidly to about 6’ at maturity. The plant will tolerate part shade although it will produce more blooms in full sun. It is hardy to 15 degrees F and is cold and drought tolerant.

Makes its Own Fertilizer

Maintenance of the orchid tree is easy.  The plant makes a beautiful multi-trunked shrub, requiring little to no pruning.  No fertilizer is needed because the orchid tree makes its own! This nitrogen-fixing tree hosts soil bacterial known as rhizobia in its roots, which do the actual work of converting nitrogen from the atmosphere into a usable form for plants in exchange for sugars. Avoid planting in turf or other areas you are likely to apply fertilizers, as this native plant becomes lanky and flowering is reduced when the plant is given excess nitrogen.

Pollinator Magnet

Orchid trees offer high value to pollinators.  It is the host plant for the long-tailed skipper butterfly and the flower nectar attracts many other pollinators including other butterflies, bees and hummingbirds.

The orchid tree leaves feed caterpillars that turn into these splendid long-tailed skippers

Good Things Can Be Hard to Find

Locating an anacacho orchid tree may require an online search since it is a plant not commonly sold in stores.  Local organizations such as the Texas Native Plant Society and Master Gardener Association sometimes sell this plant in their seasonal plant sales.  Plant nurseries located in south Texas also frequently sell the anacacho orchid tree.  Your search will be rewarded with an outstanding plant to add to the home landscape.

Learn More About Native Trees This Saturday

Learn much more about home landscaping with native Texas trees by joining us online on Saturday, April 15 from 9 am to 11 am.  Michael Merritt, Urban and Community Forestry Program Leader for the Texas A&M Forest Service will share his lifelong expertise with native Texas trees.  Michael will guide us through selection, care, and maintenance of trees; specific trees for the home landscape; caring for trees during drought, common tree pests, and the many benefits of trees.  Michael was honored in 2021 by his selection as Texas State Arborist of the Year.  Register today for this exciting, informative, FREE presentation.

Texas Trees in the Home Landscape
Saturday, April 15
9 am to 11 am

Presenter: Michael Merritt, Texas A&M Urban and Community Forester

Virtual class

Essential Resources to Plant & Care for Native Trees

Whether you join us at the Arbor Day Tree Give Away in The Woodlands, or are buying tress from one of the many sales this time of year, here are some great resources to ensure your trees thrive for years to come.

Here is a quick overview of what you’ll find here. Click on a category to jump to each section, or scroll through for all the tree care tips.

Planting Bare-Root Trees | Mulching the Right Way | 3 Great Pruning Resources | Plant Health Care | Right Tree Right Place | Find a Certified Arborist Near You

Arbor Day Varieties | Which Tree is Good For Me? Guide to Arbor Day Varieties | Detailed Links for Each Variety |

Planting Bare-Root Trees

Click here for the step-by-step guide from the Arbor Day Foundation to successfully plant your bare-root tree.


Mulching the Right Way

After you plant, there’s one more step! Mulch is one of the best things you can do keep moisture in the soil and add organic matter. There is a right and a wrong way to mulch; check out this simple guide to make sure you are helping the tree, not harming it.

Check out this quick guide to mulching right from the Arborists themselves, or watch the video below from the Tree Care Video Library.

Mulching is also important to avoid conflicts between trees and turf grass. Find out why here.


3 Great Pruning Resources

1] This Tree City USA Bulletin covers How to Prune Young Shade Trees. Follow the story of two families who both plant trees, and how those trees turn out in 15 years. Isn’t the one below a thing of beauty? It is the result of judicious pruning throughout the tress life.

2 ] A quick guide to correct pruning is found in this this ISA Guide to Pruning Young Trees. Proper pruning is essential to a tree having a strong structure and pleasing form.

3] Wondering what some of the common mistakes are? This USDA Forest Service Guide has some great pictures on what to avoid as well as how to do it right.


Plant Health Care

Health Care? For Plants? Certainly! Plant Health Care (PHC) is a holistic approach to the care of trees and plants that can save you money, save your trees, and save our environment from needless amounts of toxic chemicals.

The benefits are large following the 5 steps of PHC. Skip to the second page of this Tree City USA Bulletin to find out how to implement PHC in your own yard for healthy and resilient trees.


Right Tree Right Place

Even if you plant the tree correctly, mulch it well and prune it for a strong structure, it won’t matter much if the tree is in the wrong place to begin with. One of the essential functions of trees in SE Texas is to provide cooling summer shade. Think about that and other factors that affect tree placement in this visual guide to determining the Right Tree for the Right Place.


Find a Certified Arborist

If you would like to entrust pruning, assessment and health to a certified professional, the International Society of Arboriculture has a great online tool to find one using your zip code HERE.

And for some talking points to consider in discussing your trees with the Arborist, check out this guide on How to Hire an Arborist.



CANOPY TREES

American Sycamore

Platanus occidentalis (American sycamore) | Native Plants of North America (wildflower.org)

Chinkapin Oak

Quercus muehlenbergii (Chinkapin oak) | Native Plants of North America (wildflower.org)

Overcup Oak

Quercus lyrata (Overcup oak) | Native Plants of North America (wildflower.org)

Green Ash

Fraxinus pennsylvanica (Green ash) | Native Plants of North America (wildflower.org)

Loblolly Pine

Pinus taeda (Loblolly pine) | Native Plants of North America (wildflower.org)

UNDERSTORY TREES

Chickasaw Plum

Prunus angustifolia (Chickasaw plum) | Native Plants of North America (wildflower.org)

Possumhaw Holly [NOT SHIPPED BY GROWER]

Ilex decidua (Possumhaw) | Native Plants of North America (wildflower.org)

Roughleaf Dogwood

Cornus drummondii (Roughleaf dogwood) | Native Plants of North America (wildflower.org)

Texas Redbud

Cercis canadensis var. texensis (Texas redbud) | Native Plants of North America (wildflower.org)

Texas Persimmon

Diospyros texana (Texas persimmon) | Native Plants of North America (wildflower.org)

Spicebush

Lindera benzoin (Northern spicebush) | Native Plants of North America (wildflower.org)

Witch Hazel

Hamamelis virginiana (Witch-hazel) | Native Plants of North America (wildflower.org)


Tree Resource Hubs

Arbor Day Foundation | Tree Care Tips & Techniques for Homeowners

Trees Are Good.org | Tree Owner Information

Tree City USA | Bulletins & Resources


Arbor Day is brought to you by The Woodlands Township Environmental Services

Originally started by the Howard Hughes Development Company, since 1977 more than 1.5 million seedlings have been shared with residents to plant in their yard, in community open space reserves and in forest preserves. Participate in one of The Woodlands longest standing traditions and help plant trees today for our community to enjoy for years to come.

Twelve native trees to plant now

Which lovable, albeit grumpy, Dr. Seuss character is known for saying “I speak for the trees”?  If you guessed The Lorax, you’re right! And I’m guessing you share his love for trees, for their beauty and their tremendous environmental value.  Our woody friends reduce cooling costs, increase property values, improve air quality, reduce soil erosion, and improve water quality. 

And native trees offer even more. They’re more pest and disease resistant, can handle our weather extremes, and are essential to the survival of thousands of species of local wildlife and beneficial insects. 

Selecting a native tree  

Consider the following when selecting the right native tree for you: 

  • How large will the tree be when fully grown? 
  • How much sun does the planting site receive each day? 
  • How much water does the tree need? 
  • Do you want a tree that produces flowers, fruits, nuts or fall colors? 

We’ve made it easier to select the right tree for you by including key details for each of our twelve native trees highlighted below.  Let’s start with those that need the most growing space. 

We’ve compiled information on the following five large varieties. These canopy trees, which comprise the upper layer of the forest, typically reach heights of 40-90 feet at full maturity.  Scroll through the images to learn which tree is right for you. 

Need to go smaller? Consider one of these seven understory trees which range in height from 8 to 20 feet at maturity and are generally more shade tolerant. 

Each of these native seedlings benefit local wildlife. Flowering varieties provide nectar for bees, butterflies and other pollinators. Berry producing trees offer small mammals and birds a source of food. All are critical hosts for beneficial insects. 

Interested in adding some of these trees to your yard or a nearby greenspace? Come celebrate the 46th annual Arbor Day Tree Giveaway on Saturday, January 29, 2022, from 9 a.m. to noon at Rob Fleming Park for free native seedlings. The twelve varieties listed above are available, while supplies last. 

You can also bring your tree planting and care questions to our Ask An Expert booth, have your photo taken with The Lorax and Puffy the Pinecone, and visit with experts to learn how to create habitat in your landscape for birds and pollinators. 


Questions or comments?

Email enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

Join us for Arbor Day

The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago. The next best time is now.

Chinese Proverb

Celebrate the 44th annual Arbor Day Tree Giveaway this Saturday, January 25 from 9 a.m. to noon at Northshore Park.  The Woodlands Township and community partner, the George Strake District of Boy Scouts of America, will join forces with community volunteers to hand out more than 11,000 native seedlings. Sponsored by the Howard Hughes Corporation, this annual FREE event has given out more than 1.5 million seedlings since 1977 to plant in yards, open green spaces and forest preserves.

This year’s selection includes a variety of native canopy and understory trees. Canopy trees, those comprising the upper layer of the forest, typically reach heights of 40 to 90 feet at full maturity. Canopy trees available at this year’s event are American Sycamore, Green Ash, Loblolly Pine, Overcup Oak, Southern Magnolia, Sugar Hackberry, and Tulip Poplar.

Southern Magnolia in bloom

Understory trees range in height from 8 to 20 feet at maturity and are generally more shade tolerant. Eastern Redbud, Possumhaw Holly, Roughleaf Dogwood, Spicebush, and Witch Hazel will be passed out at this year’s event.

Eastern Redbud covered in delicate, pink flowers

Each of these native tree species benefits local wildlife. Flowering varieties provide nectar for bees, butterflies and other pollinators. Berry-producing trees offer small mammals and birds a source of food and many of these trees are host plants for butterflies, providing nutritious leaves for caterpillars to consume.

Need help selecting a tree? This chart highlights many characteristics about each variety to help you decide.

By planting a tree on your property, in community open space reserves and forest preserves, you help support the reforestation of our community and encourage a healthier environment for the benefit of residents and wildlife alike. Here’s an overview on the value of native trees along with resources for caring for your newly planted tree.

Come early for the best selection of seedlings. Bring your reusable bag to help transport your new seedlings from the park to your home. 

For more information, contact enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or call 281-210-3800